Denavir Patient Information

Drug Category:            Skin Care
Other Similar Drugs:   Renova  Retin-A  Vaniqa  Cleocin  Denavir  Tretinoin  Atarax  Nizoral  Gris-Peg  Kenalog  Synalar  Aphthasol  Protopic  Dovonex  Diprolene  Penlac  Elidel  Lamisil  Sumycin  

• Denavir

Description
Penciclovir ( pen-SYE-kloe-veer) belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals. Antivirals are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually they work for only one kind or group of virus infections.

Topical penciclovir is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infections around the mouth (cold sores). Although topical penciclovir will not cure herpes simplex, it may help relieve the pain and discomfort and may help the sores heal faster.

DENAVIR is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Topical
• Cream (U.S.)

Proper Use of DENAVIR
DENAVIR should only be used on the lips or face.

Penciclovir is best used as soon as possible after the symptoms of herpes infection (for example, pain, burning, or blisters) begin to appear.

Do not use DENAVIR in or near the eyes.

Do not use DENAVIR inside the mouth or nose or on other internal parts of the body.

Dosing - The dose of topical penciclovir will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of topical penciclovir. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For topical dosage form (cream):
  • For herpes simplex infection (cold sores):
    • AdultsApply to the affected area(s) of the skin every two hours, while awake, for four days.
    • ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of DENAVIR, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store DENAVIR:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Keep the medicine from freezing.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.